Arkansas Roots Music Festival Happening Next Month in Dyess

JONESBORO – The 11th Arkansas Roots Music Festival will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, at the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home: Historic Dyess Colony, located at 110 Center Dr. in Dyess.  
 
The event, hosted by singer/songwriter Erin Ederlin, will honor the musical roots of Sister Rosetta Tharpe.  
 
“We will celebrate the life and legacy of the 'godmother of rock ‘n’ roll.' Tharpe is an Arkansas music legend whose electrifying guitar and gospel roots helped shape rock, soul and rhythm and blues,” said Will Reaves, director of the boyhood home.  
 
A performer whose music was inspired by gospel, blues and swing, she is remembered as a vibrant performer. Hailing from Cotton Plant, Ark., Tharpe’s groundbreaking style influenced generations of artists, from Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley to Little Richard and beyond.  
 
“This year’s festival brings together Arkansas musicians to honor her powerful musical legacy,” Reaves added.  
 
Joining Ederlin are Mae Estes, Reverend Greg Spradlin and Delta Soul Singers. In addition to the music, other activities are planned at the boyhood home.  
 
“As part of our mission to showcase Arkansas Roots, we will have activities that have roots in the state’s culture,” Reaves continued. “Among these is Baggo, which will be set up adjacent to the stage. We are also leaning into the culinary roots of Arkansas food with a regional cheese dip competition.” 

Tickets to the music festival are $35 for those 18 and up, $10 for those 13-17 years old; those 12 and under get in free. Tickets may be purchased through this link: AState.edu/ARMF26. 

Sponsors are the Judd Hill Foundation, KASU, A-State Heritage Sites, and Delta Symposium. Lost Forty Brewing has donated beverages for those 21 and older.  
 
To learn more about the event, including how to enter the cheese dip competition or purchase tickets, one may reach out to Reaves by email at wreaves@AState.edu or by phone at 870-764-2274.